Otoplasty

Having large ears or ones that protrude outward can cause several emotional problems for children and adults. Many face issues regarding low self-esteem, embarrassment, and being teased. If you or your child is uncomfortable with the current look or positioning of the ears, otoplasty can be a highly effective solution.

Dr. Farrell will make incisions behind the ear to minimize future scar visibility. The underlying structure of the ear will then be altered to change its position so they sit closer to the sides of the head. Dr. Farrell will then use permanent sutures beneath the skin to hold the ears in their new position. Once completed, your incisions will be closed using stitches or dissolvable sutures.

Otoplasty is normally performed as an outpatient procedure, so an overnight stay at the hospital is not usually necessary. It is important to have someone to help care for you for the first couple of nights after your procedure.

Dr. Farrell will prescribe antibiotics and some type of narcotic. He may also provide steroids and prescribe other medications. You should not put on earrings for three weeks. Also, if you can avoid wearing glasses, do not wear them during that time.

For more information and advice on how best to recover from otoplasty, contact Dr. Farrell. Each patient’s recovery experience will vary to some degree.

You will notice an immediate difference in the appearance and position of your ears. There may be some initial bruising and swelling, but this will soon fade over the next couple of weeks. The results of your otoplasty procedure are designed to be permanent, but may require future revision procedures as you get older.